Three Forks Career and Technical Education Department Receives Grant to Install Raised Garden Beds

The Three Forks Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department is thrilled to announce the installation of raised garden beds in the courtyard area between the elementary school and the new flex space. This initiative, aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and community engagement, has been made possible by a generous grant from the Montana Farmers Union Foundation. Additionally, the project has received support through a Rural Reserve Grant and Carl Perkins funding.

The new garden area will serve as a versatile learning space for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. It will be integrated into science classes, culinary arts programs, and agriculture education, providing hands-on experiences that enrich the standard curriculum. These outdoor classrooms will foster a deeper understanding of natural sciences, sustainability, and food production.

As part of an ongoing effort to develop extended learning environments, the Three Forks CTE Department has focused on utilizing courtyard areas created by recent construction. The gardens will not only serve as educational spaces but also as social areas for both students and the community.

The construction and maintenance of these gardens are designed as practical learning opportunities for students across all grade levels. This hands-on approach ensures that students gain valuable skills in gardening, project management, and community service.

“We are excited to share our project with the community and look forward to making a difference in the lives of our students,” said Cathe Felz, Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher. “These new spaces will provide unique learning experiences that go beyond the traditional classroom and help students develop important life skills.”

The Three Forks CTE Department extends its gratitude to the Montana Farmers Union Foundation, the Rural Reserve Grant, and Carl Perkins funding for their invaluable support. The community's enthusiasm and involvement are crucial as we move forward with this project, which promises to benefit students and residents alike.

For more information about the project or how to get involved, please contact Cathe Felz at cfelz@threeforks.k12.mt.us or Jessica Oehmcke at joehmcke@threeforks.k12.mt.us.

About Three Forks Career and Technical Education Department

The Three Forks CTE Department is dedicated to providing students with practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for future careers and life skills. Through innovative projects and community partnerships, the department aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster a love for lifelong learning. Teachers involved in the project are Ian Schlif, Tyler Noyes, Jessica Oehmcke, and Cathe Felz.

MFUF

Montana Farmers Union Foundation recently awarded grants to 24 community projects.

“This year was harder than ever to select the grant awardees. For every grant we awarded, there were two great projects that we were not able to fund. The word is out, and I hope we can continue to grow our Foundation to be able to fund more projects next year,” MFU president Walter Schweitzer said.

In July, the MFU Foundation awarded $33,349 to 24 projects, with more than 70 projects applying for funding. Grant recipients’ projects advance the Foundation’s mission to create new opportunities and contribute to the growth and enhancement of Montana agriculture and rural communities.

This year’s recipients will use the funding for a wide range of projects, from purchasing a life-sized butcher beef model to purchasing shop tools for high school programs to Farm-to-School training programs to a community fruit orchard to a cow show training.

Learn more about the MFU Foundation and other funding and sponsorship opportunities at http://www.montanafarmersunion.com.